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It has been an interesting five years since I became a real estate agent in October 2005. In that time I have sold over 60 homes and each one has a story to tell. I remember when I first discussed the career move as I was retiring from the Air Force after 20 years. I have never had any desire to go into sales. I was a public relations major in college and when I graduated the decision to serve my country came to me slowly. At first I joined to see what it was like, then as the years went by I worked my way up in rank and the important thing for me was always looking out for my people. As an Administration Officer, and later a Personnel Officer it was my job to take care of those in my section, my flight, my group, my base and eventually looking after squadron members located throughout Europe. Paperwork was always involved, but it was taking care of the people that I always cared about.

When I discussed with Mom the idea of joining the family team, I told her about the concern I had about not being a salesman. She told me to just be myself. This morning I received the attached note from some friends who had just bought a condo from me. I smile as I say friends. Last year my wife and I were attending a performance of the Florida Orchestra at the Mahaffey Theater. After the show I noticed David and Morrison, so I went over to introduce my wife to my “clients.” They were almost offended…they said, we are friends first! That is the way I want go through life, by helping my friends. Here is what they had to say about our relationship:

We first contacted the Simms Team on the basis of their website. We lived in Michigan, but wanted to find a condo in St. Pete. We originally spoke with Rob, but when he wasn’t available Tami was able to answer all our questions. Everyone in the office was always extremely helpful, knowledgeable, and informed about our concerns. When we arrived in St. Pete, Rob had identified all the downtown condos that satisfied our criteria and arranged showings. He helped us (and held our hands) through our first short sale offer, which ultimately did not work out….I don’t think the successful “buyer” has closed on that unit still. We went back to Michigan, but Rob kept watch on other units that became available and found one that was a perfect fit for us! He viewed the unit and took dozens of pictures to send to us. Once again, he talked us through negotiation strategies and kept the pressure on the seller (and the bank negotiator) on a second short sale offer. Because of his efforts, we actually closed within 6 weeks of making our offer–unheard of in Florida! Before closing, Amy sent us info about home insurance, electric services, and other items we needed to consider. But the Simms Team services didn’t stop at the closing–since then they have told us where to register to vote; given us names of reputable locksmiths, painters, handymen, and other trades; kept our key on file for emergencies; and continue to offer suggestions and advice about living in St. Pete. People were shocked when we said we were buying a condo sight unseen, but we were confident because we trusted the Simms Team. We recommend them highly to anyone who wants a trustworthy, reputable realtor team who prides itself on service. Professor Morrison Torrey and David Hirschman, AIA

To David and Morrison, I say thank you. It was a pleasure meeting you both, getting to know you, and helping you find the perfect home. I look forward to seeing you next month at the next performance of the Florida Orchestra.

In Indian Shores, there are 134 active listings, with another 23 under contract or pending sale. There have been 14 sales this year, 13 of which were condos. The average sales price was $280,118. Most of the sales were small, inexpensive units across the street from the beach. The highest sale was in Las Olas, directly on the gulf, with 3,270 square feet, which sold for $810,000. There are 23 units currently under contract, including three over the million dollar mark. The highest of which is a unit at Alta Vita, which is listed for $3,500,000. It will be interesting to see what it sells for. The San Kevi seems to be the building with the most activity. With six units on the market, ranging from $999,999 to $1,490,000. The $999,999 unit is a short sale which was purchased for $1,480,000 in 2006. With 3,440 square feet, directly on the Gulf of Mexico, it could be the bargain someone has been waiting for.

The house I keep watching is the one 4 doors down from my house. A six bedroom home, with 5,215 square feet, private heated pool, and gulf front balconies on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors. As I walk by it every day on my evening beach walks, all I think is that if I win the lottery, that will be my first stop.

Give me a call if you have any questions or would like me to show you what Indian Shores has to offer.

Sunburst Cove is a complex that was completed in 2007. Their are only 6 units in the building, which includes a heated pool and spa and is directly on the Gulf of Mexico. All of the units are 5,100 – 5,400 square feet and include a 2-car garage, 8 balconies and 360 degree views as the units take up the entire floor. The units sold for between $800,000 and 1,750,000. The $800,000 was a short sale that resold in 3 weeks for $$1,200,000. There is currently one unit for sale. It is on the 5th floor and is listed for $1,400,000. It is full of upgrades and well worth a look if you are considering a first-class beach condo. The building is on Indian Shores beach, within walking distance of the Salt Rock Grill restaurant and very close to Park Blvd and easy access to the interstate and Tampa. With four sales in 2009, it has done very well in today’s market.